Police foil kidnap attempt on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, kill four kidnappers

Operatives of the anti-kidnapping unit of the Ogun State Police Command, on Thursday, foiled a kidnapped attempt along the Warewa axis of the long bridge on the Lagos -Ibadan highway.

The incident, according to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola, happened at about 20:30 hours, as the operatives responded swiftly to a distress call by members of the public.

The statement revealed that a white paragon commercial vehicle marked BDG 735 YH, driven by one Morufu Adedeji inwards Lagos, was ambushed by armed men on a section of the road.

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The suspected kidnappers were reported to have wielded dangerous weapons at the passengers of the vehicle and halted its movement further.

The driver of the vehicle was said to have made a way for some passengers to escape by opening a rear door, a development that enraged the kidnappers.

They were reported to have pounced on the driver aggressively and dispossessed their victims of their belongings.

The alarm raised by some motorists made the anti-kidnapping patrol team to engage the hoodlums, leaving four dead, while others escaped with bullet injuries.

Items recovered from the scene were one locally made pistol with two cartridges; two daggers; ca ash sum of N20,000; one techno android phone; one solar power Bank and three USB lights(suspected to be stolen property).

The bodies of the neutralized kidnappers have been deposited at the State Hospital Morgue, Ijaiye, Abeokuta, for autopsy and further investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ridding the area of criminal activities, and further strengthening security in that area he has reinforced tactical operatives to remain stationed at strategic flashpoints, in Arepo and heightened routine patrols to ensure the security of residents and commuters.

The Command urged members of the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds. Citizens are also advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.